June 2016
I-95 Jimmy DeLoach Connector Improves Freight Movement & Driver Safety
SAVANNAH, GA – Archer Western has completed the I-95 Jimmy DeLoach Connector, a dramatic improvement to the transportation logistics surrounding one of America’s most historic and active ports that dates back to the 1770s. Today, the Port of Savannah has grown into the nation’s fourth-largest, and fastest growing container port. As a result, the Port’s large volume of activity yielded to transportation difficulties along I-95 for the traveling public and freight traffic.
The new Jimmy DeLoach Connector relieves congestion, and provides a direct route for freight traffic by linking I-95, one of the country’s busiest interstates, and the Port of Savannah.
“This was a challenging, high profile project for the State of Georgia. Through the hard work of the project team and coordination with our design partner, Michael Baker International (The LPA Group) and various government agencies, Archer Western was able to deliver a successful project that will significantly impact traffic flow in the area. The Connector will improve commute times for truck freight, as well as the everyday driver,” said Archer Western’s Project Manager Brian Woods.
Within the scope of work, Archer Western placed one million CY of embankment, constructed 60,000 SF of MSE wall and six new bridges and mitigated 11 acres of surrounding wetland.
“The completion of the Jimmy DeLoach Connector will be beneficial for both freight movement and driver safety around the Port of Savannah, while positively impacting Georgia’s economy,” Georgia Governor Nathan Deal said. “I am proud to see this investment come to fruition.”
Officials say the 3.1-mile Connector will cut 900 hours in truck transit time per day, yielding important reductions in highway emissions. The four-lane highway largely runs parallel to State Route 21 and allows direct access to I-95 and I-16 for the more than 8,000 trucks that enter and leave the Port of Savannah each day.
“Not only will the Jimmy DeLoach Connector expedite cargo to and from the Port of Savannah and important inland markets, it will also improve transit times and safety for local commuters,” said Georgia Ports Authority Board Chairman-elect James L. Allgood.